The 97th Michigan Future Farmers of America (FFA) State Convention witnessed a showcase of articulate and insightful speeches as finalists competed in the Prepared Public Speaking Contest. Held on March 5-6, contestants advanced through district and regional levels to compete at the state convention.
Annette Jensen from the Montague FFA Chapter emerged victorious as the winner of the 2025 Michigan FFA Prepared Public Speaking Contest. Annette's compelling speech about hearing loss in agriculture captivated the audience and impressed the judges, earning her the top honors in the contest.
In an intense face-off on the Wharton Center main stage in front of 1,500 spectators, Grace Holm from the Jackson Area Career Center FFA Chapter competed against Annette in the finals of the contest. Grace secured the first runner-up position.
In addition to the top competitors, other finalists included:
- Evelyn Harrand, Owosso FFA Chapter, Second Runner-up, Gold
- Olivia Belden, Hopkins FFA Chapter, Gold
- Elizabeth Hartman, Lapeer County FFA Chapter, Gold
- Merrill Adams, Cassopolis FFA Chapter, Silver
- Elaina Morley, Standish-Sterling FFA Chapter, Silver
- Gavin Malek, Ashley FFA Chapter, Silver
- Mason Sparks, Fremont FFA Chapter, Silver
- Seth Stahr, Ashley FFA Chapter, Bronze
- Carmen Cunningham, Saline FFA Chapter, Bronze
- Cierra DeRosha, Wexford Missaukee FFA Chapter, Bronze
"In the Prepared Public Speaking Contest, members become experts by researching and preparing a speech about an agricultural topic of their choice,” explained 2024-2025 Michigan FFA Region III State Vice President Nicole Hollabaugh. "These members spent countless hours honing their public speaking skills to perform before a panel of judges, preparing themselves for a bright career and even brighter future. We applaud the outstanding work of these members as they work to become strong advocates for the agricultural industry!”
FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.
The Michigan FFA Prepared Public Speaking Contest provides FFA members with the opportunity to research and deliver a speech on a topic relevant to agriculture. Contestants demonstrate their ability to effectively communicate their ideas, support their arguments with evidence and engage their audience. The state winner, Annette Jensen, will proudly represent Michigan FFA at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo, scheduled from Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2025, in Indianapolis.
The Prepared Public Speaking Contest is proudly sponsored by the Michigan Potato Industry Commission (MPIC). MPIC was formed in 1970 by the Michigan Legislature as the state’s potato research, promotion and education organization. The commission members are charged to use the funds assessed on growers and shippers of Michigan potatoes to promote an economically viable potato industry in Michigan.